Suzuki Unsheathes KATANA with Cutting Edge Debut

Japanese Taiko Drums and Samurai Bring Authentic Energy to the KATANA’s Stunning Long Beach Debut

Brea, CA (November 19, 2018) – On Friday, November 17th, at the first stop of the 2018 International Motorcycle Show (IMS) tour in Long Beach, California, Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) enthralled attendees with the North American debut of the all-new 2020 KATANA motorcycle. Inspired by the energy of traditional Japanese taiko drums, the strength and courage of a samurai, and the fine craftsmanship of a katana sword, the new KATANA motorcycle faithfully honors Suzuki performance and craftsmanship while simultaneously delivering modern sportbike technology and design.

The distinctive beat of Japanese taiko drums echoed across the Long Beach Convention Center drawing hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts to the Suzuki display for the dramatic unveiling. The Taiko Project, a professional taiko drum corps provided its authentic sound and style while professional martial artist, Jordan Okubo displayed samurai-like strength and ability with a katana sword to symbolically cut a new KATANA motorcycle free of its cloak (see the video here).

Named after the fabled sword of the samurai, the new 2020 KATANA was unveiled alongside the original, iconic 1982 Katana. While separated by years, but not spirit, these unique motorcycles mechanically demonstrate Suzuki’s continual commitment to craftsmanship and performance encapsulated with distinctive, angular styling.

Both the original Katana, a pristine example on loan from the Barber Motorcycle Museum, and the new KATANA will be on display in the Suzuki booth during the entire IMS Show Tour. Check them out, along with Suzuki’s full 2019 model lineup, at the next show stop in New York City on November 30th through December 2nd.

To learn more about the new KATANA, its features and special heritage, please visit here. The 2020 KATANA will arrive at US Suzuki dealers in 2019. Please watch for future announcements on that date and pricing.

Consumers can learn more about Suzuki’s full 2019 Motorcycle, ATV, and Scooter lineup by visiting Suzuki’s Full Line website.